Draft Thunder: Eagles Shatter the Power Rankings with Discipline Over Flash
Even with the 2025 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, the Philadelphia Eagles remain perched atop the NFL hierarchy. Despite a relatively quiet offseason in terms of flashy acquisitions, the Birds’ commitment to development, discipline, and draft dominance has left the national media in agreement: the Eagles are still the team to beat.
Philadelphia entered the offseason focused not on making splashy moves but on preserving its core. With smart contract extensions for key players like Saquon Barkley and Cam Jurgens and the strategic departure of older veterans chasing paydays elsewhere, the Eagles doubled down on continuity and culture.
Then came the draft. With 10 total picks and eyes firmly on the future, GM Howie Roseman struck again. Philadelphia didn’t just fill roster gaps—they positioned themselves to reload, not rebuild. Top selections Jihaad Campbell, Andrew Mukuba, and Ty Robinson were all praised for their NFL-readiness and long-term upside.
Campbell, in particular, has the look of a future defensive leader. Scooped up late in the first round, the Alabama linebacker is a fast, instinctive playmaker. Many analysts viewed his selection as a “steal,” a theme that has become all too familiar with Roseman’s late-first-round magic.
The defensive secondary also received a jolt with the addition of Mukuba. The versatile safety from Clemson could push for a starting job by Week 1. His range and tackling ability fit perfectly with the Eagles’ hybrid cover schemes, and his potential has fans excited for a new wave of defensive dominance.
So how does all of this translate to national perception? Quite clearly. In a rare show of total consensus, five major sports outlets—NFL.com, USA Today, CBS Sports, FanSided, and Bleacher Report—each ranked the Eagles as the No. 1 team in the NFL entering mini-camp.
NFL.com’s Eric Edholm praised Philadelphia’s process and long-term planning, noting, “Not all of Philadelphia’s picks are going to work, which we know; it’s the process and the thought and the patience that stand out.” He emphasized that Philadelphia could have as many as 12 picks in next year’s draft—further evidence of how Roseman is playing chess while others are playing checkers.
USA Today echoed that sentiment. Even after a dominant Super Bowl victory, they say Philly somehow looks more dangerous now. “Rich and richer,” their headline teased, referring to how the Eagles were able to add Campbell late in the first round, reinforcing an already elite defense.
CBS Sports took a slightly more technical angle, pointing out that the lack of major change on offense is a strength in itself. With Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and Barkley returning—and new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo stepping in—the offense should remain one of the league’s most feared, even amid a play-calling transition.
FanSided kept it simple: “Everyone is still chasing the Eagles.” The outlet highlighted how contract stability and savvy draft picks are keeping the championship window open longer than most contenders could dream of. Their ability to mix young talent with veteran leadership is unmatched in today’s NFL.
Even Bleacher Report, typically cautious in overhyping repeat contenders, listed the Eagles at No. 1. While they expressed mild concern over the offensive coordinator change, they ultimately believe the Eagles are “better equipped to handle this shift” than in the past, especially with new rookies adding fresh legs and hunger.
Bottom line? There’s no sign of a hangover in Philadelphia. If anything, the 2025 version of the Eagles might be deeper, more balanced, and more dangerous than the one that just hoisted the Lombardi. The rest of the league has been warned: the kings of the NFL aren’t just defending—they’re evolving
